Memory Garden celebration honors loved ones

On Friday, April 12, the Florida Hospital DeLand Foundation hosted a commemorative service at the hospital’s Memory Garden to recognize new tribute bricks in the garden, which are purchased in honor of someone.

“This is a special opportunity to compassionately honor loved ones and pay tribute to the difference they made in our lives,” said Mark LaRose, Florida Hospital DeLand President/CEO. “Whether it’s a friend, relative, the birth of a baby or even a romance, this garden provides an opportunity to take that memory and give it shape, while raising money for cancer.”

The Rev. Wilburn L. Harpe Jr., pastor of Mount Zion Baptist Church in Lake Helen, sang three gospel hymns acapella for the crowd that had gathered.

The Memory Garden is designed to allow a peaceful respite to the hospital environment for patients, their families and staff. It is considered a labor of love, respect, generosity and celebration.

Professionally designed, the Memory Garden is a tranquil space for reflection, relaxation and peace. Colorful flowering plants, refreshing shade, a water feature and numerous seating areas complement winding pathways throughout the garden. This garden of peace, tranquility and cherished memories is located near the Stone Street Entrance.

Nearly 90 individuals and businesses are represented in the Memory Garden. Each tribute item purchased, such as engraved bricks and garden structures, assists in enhancing the cancer services available at the Florida Hospital DeLand Cancer Institute. Tribute items are available year round.

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